For millions of Muslims worldwide, Ramadan is one of the best times of the year. The 9th lunar month, every year Ramadan offers Muslims a chance for increased worship, reflection, charitable giving and seeking of mercy. Ramadan is considered a mercy to mankind, offering it the chance to be forgiven for their sins, and to be elevated in Allah (SWT)’s ranking. In these few weeks before Ramadan 2026 begins many Muslims feel an excitement building as they prepare their homes for our sacred visitor and preparing the mind and body for a month of fasting from sunrise to sunset.
Fasting in Ramadan is a core part of the Islamic faith – one of the five pillars of faith. All good deeds are rewarded at least 70 times more during Ramadan, and even more during the final ten nights. As it is so important, Muslims yearn for the month, and many will prepare to welcome the month by setting intentions and goals for Ramadan 2026, forgiving those who wronged them, calculating Zakat, and planning meals to avoid excess time in the kitchen.
Understanding Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan in obligatory upon all Muslims in good health and in sound mind, who have passed the age of puberty. There are some exceptions, as those who are unwell, pregnant, breastfeeding, or travelling, are exempt from fasting.
Ramadan fasting times are from sunrise to sunset, which means that fasting times in Ramadan 2026 differ from previous years. The Ramadan UK iftar time is different from this year, as the lunar calendar means that Ramadan falls 10 days earlier each year. While fasting, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking, as well as sexual intimacy. Many people also refrain from listening to music and from verbal profanities to protect their fast.
A special duaa is made at the start and end of every fast, which confirms intention and adds greater blessings to the fast.
Duaa for closing/starting fast:Â Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri Ramadan
English Translation:Â I intend to fast tomorrow in this month of Ramadan
Duaa for opening/breaking fast: Allahumma inni laka sumtu, wa bika aamantu, [wa ‘alayka tawakkaltu], wa Ala rizqika aftartu.
English translation:Â Oh Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You [and I put my trust in You] and I break my fast with Your sustenance.
Ramadan 2026Â in the UK
In the UK this year, Ramadan will begin on 17th February 2026, and end on 18th March 2026. As the seasons change, this year’s fasting will be significantly shorter than last year, making the fasts less intense for many Muslims in the UK.
To have accurate Ramadan fasting times, it is important to use a Ramadan calendar or a Ramadan timetable which detail the timings of iftar, suhoor and each of the five prayers.
As the UK is not a Muslim country, people are expected to work and go to school or university as normal. However, it is encouraged for people to speak to their employers and institutions about Ramadan, as they can sometimes support with flexible working or accommodate responsibilities accordingly. Many Muslims in the UK enjoy iftar meals at home with their family and friends, or at the mosque with wider communities. Charities, community centres and mosques will arrange an array of events and activities, bringing together communities throughout Ramadan.
Ramadan Calendar and Timetable
Using a calendar or a Ramadan timetable will remove an element of uncertainty for you, each day. Using a calendar means you have accurate information regarding Ramadan fasting times and Ramadan dates at your fingertips, so you can plan your day accordingly. It is important to note that you might need to slightly tweak the timings of the calendar depending on your location.
